TikTok suspended in Senegal: a debate on freedom of expression and online security
Since August 2, the social network TikTok has been suspended in Senegal. This decision by the authorities was taken in response to the demonstrations which broke out following the arrest of political opponent Ousmane Sonko. Initially temporary, the suspension continues due to government concerns over privacy, online security and inappropriate content posted on the platform.
The Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy, Moussa Bocar Thiam, explains that TikTok will only be allowed to resume its activities if it puts in place strict self-regulatory measures. The main concerns raised by the government are the lack of preventive measures to protect privacy and minors, as well as the lack of filters to guarantee public safety and good morals. Violent, tendentious and even terrorist content would have been shared on the platform.
This suspension sparked strong reactions from Senegalese users, particularly young people who are the main users of TikTok in the country. Some are circumventing the suspension by using VPN software, raising questions about the effectiveness of this measure. Organizations such as Amnesty International and Internet Without Borders denounced the suspension, calling it an attack on freedom of information.
This debate between privacy protection, online security and freedom of expression is not unique to Senegal. Many countries have faced similar dilemmas regarding social media and its regulation. The question of how to strike a balance between the protection of individuals, particularly minors, and the preservation of fundamental rights such as freedom of expression remains a major challenge.
It is essential that online platforms like TikTok take responsibility for regulating and filtering content, in order to prevent the spread of inappropriate and dangerous content. However, it is equally important to ensure that the measures taken do not excessively limit freedom of expression and access to information for users.
Meanwhile, the suspension of TikTok in Senegal raises questions about the role of authorities in regulating social networks and the responsibilities of technology companies towards their users. Resolving these issues will require careful consideration and collaboration between different stakeholders to find balanced solutions tailored to the specific needs of each country.